PRESS RELEASE FROM TOURISM & CIVIL AVIATION DEPARTMENT GOVERNMENT OF SIKKIM

Namchi, August 29, 2025: As part of the ongoing “SIKKIM INSPIRES” initiative, the Tourism and Civil Aviation Department, Government of Sikkim, has launched a five-day Community-Based Tourism Training Programme focusing on Homestay Standards and Hospitality Management. The training is being held at Gupti, Sadam in Namchi District, in collaboration with the Himalayan Footprint Cooperative Society, under the guidance of Hon’ble Zilla Adhakshaya, Ms. Anjeeta Rajalim.

This programme is a strategic step towards strengthening the local tourism ecosystem by fostering community participation and enhancing hospitality standards. It is designed to build capacity among homestay owners, tourism stakeholders, and service providers across the region.

The training is being led by Mr. Tenzing Gelay Bhutia, Additional Director, Hospitality, Tourism & Civil Aviation Department, with active support from a dedicated team, including:

Mr. Vikash Rai, Senior CHA.

Ms. Lamin Theengh, Deputy Director,DTO, Namchi.

Shri Nirmal Century, Deputy Director, Hospitality.

Ms. Yamini Pradhan (H.O), Deputy Director.

Ms. Vijeta Chettri, Assistant Director, Hospitality

Ms. Dipti Rai, Assistant Director Namchi

Shri Bikash Sapkota, Assistant Engineer

Mr. Saurav Baraily, Tourist Officer.

Members of the Technical Support Agency (TSA)

Successful tourism entrepreneurs who served as resource persons for the training

A total of 38 participants have joined the programme, representing homestay owners, tourism professionals, and hospitality service providers from across the district.

Key topics covered during the training include:

Sustainable tourism practices

Guest service and hospitality standards

Hygiene, safety, and sanitation protocols

Preservation of local culture through responsible tourism

As part of the experiential learning component, participants will embark on a familiarisation tour to Chalamthang tomorrow — a successful model of community-based tourism — to gain firsthand insights and practical exposure.

“This initiative is a significant step towards empowering local communities and positioning Sikkim as a pioneer in responsible and sustainable tourism. Through Sikkim Inspires, we are investing in grassroots capacity building, fostering sustainability, and encouraging community ownership,” said Mr. Tenzing Gelay Bhutia.

The Tourism & Civil Aviation Department reaffirms its commitment to promoting inclusive, community-led tourism models that not only enhance local livelihoods but also protect and celebrate Sikkim’s rich natural and cultural heritage.